Inflammatory markers coming down … to taper or not to taper?

[LemonZest11]

I’m hoping everyone had a gentle and enjoyable Christmas, did that really just happen? Anyway, if you recall my naughty, unauthorised taper a few ago when I thought I knew more than everyone else 😜, I have just received my latest results. ESR is 15, CRP 8 (down from 17) which is still slightly elevated. But is it too elevated to drop from 15mgs pred to 12.5mgs, which is what rheumy told me to do if all was OK, but is it OK? After a week of 10mgs and a week of 7.5mgs, things were still unchanged so 2 weeks at 15mgs and now some improvement. Not seeing doc until end of January.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Well only you know if you feel that the 2 weeks has got things backs under control… if so, then try 12.5mg. If you aren’t sure in your own mind then stay at 15mg for another week before dropping to 12.5mg.

[LemonZest11 in reply to DorsetLady]

Problem is DL, I have no symptoms and feel well so just wondering if it's ok to taper while CRP is still slightly elevated. I've lost the rule book and a bit anxious at staying on 15 a day longer than necessary.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to LemonZest11]

As it reducing, then it’s probably okay….

[LemonZest11 in reply to DorsetLady]

Ok, thanks DL.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Why anxious at staying at 15 a day or two longer? I'd be inclined to accept that this suggests all is not yet entirely OK and have at least another week.

[LemonZest11 in reply to PMRpro]

I was waiting to hear this. Ok. Will do.

[piglette]

If you feel well, I feel there is no reason not to reduce. I would never have reduced if I had waited for my markers to become normal!

[LemonZest11 in reply to piglette]

Oh really? Thanks Piglette. I get nervous now, since with LVV the inflammation can do damage with no symptoms until it's done. But it is low and I was just looking for reassurance, which I have. Thank you.